Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, and Sir Orfeo Themes

This Study Guide consists of approximately 28 pages of chapter summaries, quotes, character analysis, themes, and more -
everything you need to sharpen your knowledge of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, and Sir Orfeo.

Sin, Righteousness and Penance

All three pieces in the compilation have deeply Christian themes. This should be expected as all three pieces were penned during the High Middle Ages in Medieval England. The symbolism of the text is full of religious icons, and items that in reality represent theological ideas. For instance, the nick on Sir Gawain's neck and the silk belt he received from Morgan de Lay both represent Sir Gawain's shame, sin and moral imperfection.

The idea of sin, repentance and atonement are central to Christian doctrine and theology; these themes pervade the text. The entire plot of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is set in motion by Morgan de Lay's desire to show the moral imperfection of the Knights of the Round Table in order to kill Queen Guinevere by filling her with unbearable grief. Moral excellent is highly prized. When Sir Gawain is tempted...